Aprilia RS4 125 (2011-current)

Pulling away requires a good twist of the wrist to get the new four-valve, four-stroke engine spinning and keep up the momentum. Compared to some 125s the RS4 needs to be revved and ideally kept above 8000rpm. Even som the Aprilia accelerates briskly upto 40mph before starting to level off.

Due to the light weight the RS4 handles brilliantly. Flicking it from right to left is a doddle and should you need to change your line during a corner, a slight push on either bar will suffice. The launch bikes were shod with super-sticky Pirelli SC1s which really showed off the full handling potential of the RS4. It's surprisingly roomy and, compared to the old RS125, feels slightly less sporty which is a big plus.

Radial brakes, braced swingarm, max speed function and braided hoses are all standard on the RS4 125. One of the accessories which will beavailable is a quickshifter. It only really works weel if changing up right before the rev limiter at 11,000rpm, changing anywhere else results in a very clunky and crude sounding gear change. But a quickshifter will give you major bragging rights over your mates.